Animal models used to examine the role of the environment in the development of autoimmune disease: Findings from an NIEHS Expert Panel Workshop

► Responses following environmental exposures in animals depend on genetic background. ► Animal models have enough features of human disease to provide useful information. ► Strengths of animal models: genetic homogeneity and control of experimental design. ► Animal models provide strong data linking certain exposures to autoimmune disease. ► Other exposures likely impact autoimmunity, but require confirmation.